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DRAIN & REFILL

Fig. 1: The draincock is usually located at the bottom of the radiator

Fig. 2: Gently rotate the draincock counterclockwise to open the draincock . . .

Fig. 3: . . . then allow the coolant to drain out of the radiator and cooling system

Fig. 4: Allow the fluid to drain until it stops and tighten the draincock hand tight

Fig. 5: Make sure to heed the caution on the radiator cap and NEVER open the cap when the engine is hot

Fig. 6: Grasp the radiator cap and rotate it counterclockwise . . .

Fig. 7: . . . to remove the cap from the radiator

Fig. 8: Pour the proper 50⁄50 coolant mixture into the radiator . . .

Fig. 9: . . . make sure to fill the coolant recovery tank to the proper level also

Ensure that the engine is completely cool prior to starting this service.

CAUTION
Never open, service or drain the radiator or cooling system when hot; serious burns can occur from the steam and hot coolant. Also, when draining engine coolant, keep in mind that cats and dogs are attracted to ethylene glycol antifreeze and could drink any that is left in an uncovered container or in puddles on the ground. This will prove fatal in sufficient quantities. Always drain coolant into a sealable container. Coolant should be reused unless it is contaminated or is several years old.

  1. Remove the recovery tank or radiator cap.
  2. Raise and support the vehicle.
  3. If necessary, remove the splash shield from under the front of the vehicle.
  4. Place a drain pan of sufficient capacity under the radiator and open the petcock (drain) on the radiator.

    NOTE: Plastic petcocks easily bind. Before opening a plastic radiator petcock, spray it with some penetrating lubricant.

  5. Drain the cooling system completely.
  6. Close the petcock.
  7. Remove the drain pan.
  8. If necessary, install the splash shield under the vehicle.
  9. Lower the vehicle.
  10. Determine the capacity of the cooling system, then properly refill the system at the recovery tank and radiator with a 50/50 mixture of fresh coolant and distilled water until it reaches the FULL COLD line.
  11. Leave the recovery tank or radiator cap off to aid in bleeding the system.
  12. Start the engine and allow it to idle until the thermostat opens (the upper radiator hose will become hot). The coolant level should go down, this is normal as the system bleeds the air pockets out of the system.
  13. Refill the system with coolant to the proper level.
  14. Turn the engine OFF and check for leaks.

    Fig. 10: Be sure the rubber gasket on the radiator cap has a tight seal

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